Course Title: Mix live audio
Part B: Course Detail
Teaching Period: Term2 2021
Course Code: VART6343C
Course Title: Mix live audio
School: 375T Vocational Design and Social Context
Campus: City Campus
Program: C5378 - Diploma of Music Industry (Sound Production)
Course Contact: John Phillips
Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4913
Course Contact Email: john.phillips@rmit.edu.au
Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff
Teachers: Michael Pollard and Josh Ryan-Barker
Email: michael.pollard@rmit.edu.au & josh.ryan-barker@rmit.edu.au
Nominal Hours: 140
Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.
Pre-requisites and Co-requisites
None
Course Description
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to mix audio for live performance. As such it builds on other units dealing with the set-up and operation of basic audio equipment. With a focus on the basic practical approaches required to work in today’s entry level live sound environment, you will be exposed to a range of preparatory process, audio hardware and interconnectivity standards. The unit defines a minimum standard for the mixing of live audio. This unit will set-up essential approaches to you to develop their own skills.
This course includes a WIL experience in which your knowledge and skills will be applied and assessed in a workplace context.
As part of this course you are required to undertake approximately 8 hours of learning/assessment in an industry area agreed to through consultation with staff, gaining invaluable experience and industry contacts.
Workplace Assessment Requirements
An agreement including schedule and relevant insurance documentation is required to be completed before commencing each assessment placement. In the case where a placement ends early, please refer to 6. Early Termination of Placements in the Work Integrated Learning Procedure.
National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria
National Element Code & Title: |
CUASOU401 Mix live audio |
Element: |
1. Prepare for live audio mixing |
Performance Criteria: |
1.1 Review production documentation and confirm scope of audio mixing requirements with relevant personnel 1.2 Ensure that audio equipment is set up and operational in line with production requirements 1.3 Anticipate problems that could arise during shows and plan accordingly |
Element: |
2. Undertake pre-show operations |
Performance Criteria: |
2.1 Match interfaces between audio and destination in accordance with level, impedance, phase and frequency 2.2 Line check all inputs and outputs for continuity and patching and route test signals to correct signal paths 2.3 Perform time and phase alignment of audio equipment and adjust as required 2.4 Check that audio levels and controls meet acoustic and dynamic requirements 2.5 Take action to ensure that faults and problems identified during testing are rectified promptly 2.6 Complete audio check and document changes according to organisational requirements 2.7 Operate front of house and monitor consoles during dress rehearsals or sound checks to establish appropriate mix to produce the required technical level, tonal balances and frequency response 2.8 Discuss audio issues with relevant personnel during rehearsals and adjust mix as required |
Element: |
3. Mix audio sources for live shows |
Performance Criteria: |
3.1 Manage signal control of level, equalisation and dynamic parameters to achieve a balanced sound mix 3.2 Apply effects according to production requirements 3.3 Produce transitions between sound signals that are technically accurate and produce the required effect 3.4 Ensure that the level of the composite signal is within technical limits and desired dynamic range 3.5 Observe and manage sound pressure levels according to venue requirements and safe noise levels 3.6 Resolve audio operational problems with minimal disruption to performances |
Element: |
4. Complete post-show operations |
Performance Criteria: |
4.1 Execute power down and disassemble equipment safely 4.2 Pack and store equipment and accessories according to safety regulations and production requirements 4.3 Clean work environment after use and restore environment to original condition 4.4 Contribute to evaluations of productions and implement recommendations aimed at improving overall effectiveness of audio operations 4.5 Seek feedback from relevant personnel on own work performance and note areas for improvement |
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course you will have developed and applied the skills and knowledge required to demonstrate competency in the above elements. You will acquire the essential approaches and skills for live sound production and operation of associated equipment.
Details of Learning Activities
Learning will occur in class delivery and project work. Some external project completion will be required out of class, including:
- class exercises
-
analysis/critique of relevant reading material
-
design activities or projects
- class presentations
- group discussion
- research
-
independent project-based work
- ‘workshopping’ of student projects including peer/lecturer feedback
Teaching Schedule
|
MOST CLASSES FEATURE ASSESSMENT !!! | |
Class 1 |
SURVIVAL GUIDE + Overview Essential planning documents in-class assessment of Line-List completion |
Class 2 |
TUNING PART A Small group Graphic Tuning + Gain structure / desk operation QUIZ 1 |
Class 3 |
TUNING PART B Intro to FOH w/ Sub & monitor tuning – small team set-up with role swap, + Analog Patch + Multicore + QUIZ 1 |
Class 4 |
DIGITAL MIXERS A A+H QU24 + Presonus Studio Live + Analog FOH Patch + QUIZ 2 |
Class 5 |
DIGITAL MIXERS A continued A+H QU24 + Presonus Studio Live + Analog FOH Patch + QUIZ 3 |
Class 6 |
MIXERS B Analog FOH Patch + Mix + X32 Mix + X32 Edit + WiFi example + QUIZ 3 |
Class 7 |
MIXERS B continued Analog FOH Patch + Mix + X32 Mix + X32 Edit + WiFi example + QUIZ 3 |
| Class 8 |
MICING SYSTEMS RMIT Live Kit + Alternative Microphone clamps systems, DI options, Triggers |
| Class 9 |
PASSIVE SYSTEM COMPONENTS 3-Phase Power/distro Passive 3-way system - amps, processor + control pc, NL4's QU24 + Stage Rack + D-Snake |
Class 10 |
VENUE WORKSHOP @ Tote |
Learning Resources
Prescribed Texts
References
Other Resources
The University Library has extensive resources and provides subject specialist expertise, research advice, help with referencing and support through:
The learning Lab
www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/learning-lab
The Study Support Hub
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/study-support-hub
English for uni workshops
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/workshops/english-uni-workshops
Overview of Assessment
Assessment tasks include practical exercises in cable repair & maintenance and microphone-handling , setting up and tuning a speaker system, audio mixing and operating live audio production software and produciton of live sound reinforcement.
Assessment Tasks
Students enrolled in Vocational Education and Training qualifications are assessed for Competency. To be assessed as Competent means you have consistently demonstrated the required knowledge and skills at a standard expected in the workplace.
To be assessed as Competent in this course, you will need to complete each assessment task to a satisfactory standard. You will receive feedback from the teacher at the conclusion of each assessment task.
You should refer to the assessment brief which is available through Canvas for full assessment criteria and due dates
Assessment Task 1: Knowledge Test
Assessment Task 2: Live Mixing Requirements
Assessment Task 3: Live Mixing Production
Results that apply to courses that are delivered and assessed in accordance with competency-based assessment are:
CA: Competency Achieved
NYC: Not Yet Competent
DNS: Did not Submit for Assessment
Assessment Matrix
The assessment matrix demonstrates alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant unit of competency. These mapping documents are available through Program Administration if required.
Other Information
Attendance:
Your learning experience will involve class-based teaching, discussion, demonstration and practical exercises
It is strongly advised that you attend all timetabled sessions. This will allow you to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring you the maximum opportunity to complete this course successfully.
Information about your studies:
You can access My Studies through the RMIT website for information about timetables, important dates, assessment dates, results and progress, Canvas etc.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students
Assessment:
Information on assessment including Special consideration, Adjustments to assessment, (eg. applying for an extension of time):
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/assessment
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:
RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/academic-integrity
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning:
Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification).
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.
Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer or RPL for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/enrolment/apply-for-credit
Course Overview: Access Course Overview